In a first, UK extradites accused in 2002 Gujarat riots case

In a first, a man wanted in connection with the 2002 post-Godhta riots in Gujarat was extradited from the United Kingdom to stand trial in India.

Samirbhai Vinubhai Patel had been arrested by Scotland Yard in west London in August on a Red Corner Notice issued by Indian authorities.

His extradition order was signed by UK home secretary Amber Rudd on 22 September and the "surrender arrangements" were finalised for his departure.

It marks the first extradition from the UK since the signing of the India-UK Extradition Treaty in 1992.

"Following Government of India's request for extradition, Samirbhai Vinubhai Patel, an Indian national, is being extradited on 18th October 2016 to face trial in India," the High Commission said in a statement on 19 October.

According to Gujarat Police, Patel is wanted in connection with riots in Ode village of Anand district.

On 1 March 2002, 23 people from the Muslim community were burnt alive in a house in Pirwali Bhagol area of Ode village.

Patel along with two other accused, who are still at large, are accused of being part of the rioting mob at the time.